Raipur, 14 August 2025 — In a landmark development for insurgency-hit Bastar, 14 villages will raise the Indian national flag on Independence Day for the first time in decades. This symbolic gesture—once unthinkable under Maoist threats—marks a milestone in Chhattisgarh’s counter-insurgency and development strategy.

Background: Years Under Maoist Shadow
Bastar, a dense forest region in southern Chhattisgarh, has been a stronghold of Naxalite rebels since the 1980s. For decades, Maoists banned the hoisting of the tricolour, warning villagers that public allegiance to the Indian state would invite retaliation. Many villages avoided Independence Day and Republic Day altogether, turning the absence of the flag into a potent symbol of rebel dominance.

The Turning Point
Over the last year, security forces—including Chhattisgarh Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and elite CoBRA commandos—have established permanent camps in previously inaccessible zones. Operations have dismantled key rebel hideouts and secured crucial road networks.

The 14 villages, spread across Dantewada, Sukma, and Bijapur, are now under government control with improved infrastructure.

State Home Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said:

“This is not just about hoisting a flag—it is about reclaiming the soul of Bastar. Our forces, with the cooperation of the people, have broken the fear barrier.”

Villagers’ Changing Mindset
Roads, mobile connectivity, and access to schools have boosted villagers’ sense of belonging to the national mainstream. Sukma resident Ramesh Madkam, who will lead the flag hoisting in his village, shared:

“For years we celebrated festivals in secret. Now we can celebrate our country’s independence openly. It feels like a new dawn.”

Women’s self-help groups have played a major role, even petitioning authorities to organize cultural programs and sports events alongside flag ceremonies.

Security Measures for August 15
Given the historical risk of Maoist violence during national celebrations, authorities are implementing:

• Drone surveillance over event areas

• Intensified roadside patrols and anti-landmine sweeps

• Additional CRPF deployment in sensitive zones

• Public awareness drives to encourage participation

Government’s Long-Term Strategy
The state government is pairing security measures with development initiatives:

1. Electrification — Solar-powered streetlights and home connections

2. Education — Residential schools (ashram shalas) and mobile teaching units

3. Healthcare — Medical camps, vaccinations, and essential medicines

4. Livelihoods — Bamboo craft, forest produce trade, and agricultural training

Officials believe that visible governance is key to undermining insurgent influence.

Symbolism of the Flag
In conflict zones, hoisting the national flag is more than ceremony—it’s a declaration of freedom from rebel dominance. Retired CRPF officer Ajay Chaturvedi explains:

“The tricolour here tells the Maoists: ‘Your control is broken.’ And it tells villagers: ‘You are part of India’s story.’”

Challenges That Remain
Insurgency persists in deeper forests, with occasional ambushes still a threat. Human rights advocates urge balancing security with tribal rights, especially against displacement from mining projects.

Political Implications
With state elections approaching, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to highlight this as proof of progress. The Indian National Congress, while supportive, accuses the government of politicizing a security milestone and neglecting land rights.

Looking Ahead
Authorities aim to expand flag-hoisting events to 50 villages by Independence Day 2026. For many residents, hearing the national anthem in their village square—without fear—will be a defining moment.

As Sukma’s Mangli Kawasi, 19, put it:

“When the flag goes up, it will mean we are no longer prisoners in our own home.”